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We entrepreneurs are always on the hunt for our next motivational
fix. We attend inspirational seminars, drink six cups of coffee a
day and spend hours reading self-­help books, all for the sake of
feeling that energizing, motivational high that will spur our
next big ‘aha’ moment. But what if those sporadic motivational
highs are actually preventing us from reaching our goals?

The true secret to success is more than just maintaining
motivation. It’s also about controlling the sporadic, unfocused
thought­ process that often occurs during motivational highs and
using that extra energy efficiently. That's the difference
between impulsive and consistent
motivation.

Impulsive motivation is those mornings when you wake up with
a positive attitude, get to the gym early and, before lunch,
check off your to-do list the 10 daunting tasks you’ve been
avoiding for a month. This form of motivation goes hand-­in-­hand
with the “ Motivation
Arrousal Theory ” that identifies the human instinct for
seeking greater stimulation. It’s enjoyable while it lasts but
the crash that follows typically results in exhaustion,
disappointment and, ultimately, less motivation.

Consistent motivation requires self discipline and emotional
stability. It allows us to maintain an even level of stimulation
to accomplish tasks at a sustainable rate. While it may not be as
enjoyable as impulsive motivation, it helps us to maintain a
clear, level­-headed mindset for logical, rather than
emotional, decision-­making.

1. Acknowledge the impulses. When you feel
the sporadic, energizing effects of impulsive motivation, it’s
important to acknowledge that it’s both temporary and
unsustainable. This helps resist those sporadic, unplanned
decisions that could be a burden later.

2. Avoid distractions. This means closing
out of all social media accounts, blogging websites, or anything
that could potentially cause a shift of mental energy. The goal
here is to use the energy efficiently.

3. Create a detailed to-­do list with 5 long-­term
goals. A detailed list of long­ term goals is a
great way to keep your mind focused during periods of impulse.
Spend a few minutes jotting down a few daunting tasks that you
need to get off your plate, as well as 3­-4 sub­-steps required
to accomplish each task. Keep the list handy and only refer to it
during those times of impulse.

4. Keep a realistic mindset. As
entrepreneurs, we love to dream about our future accomplishments,
especially when we’re riding the effects of a full­-blown
motivational high. However, it’s important to remember that each
potential, life-­changing idea has 100+ time­consuming tasks that
follow. Maintain a balanced, realistic mindset by focusing your
energy on the short ­term tasks rather than the long ­term
fantasies.